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Two earthquakes off the coast of northern Chile

Staff at the British Embassy in Santiago are continuing to monitor the situation. Our thoughts are with those families affected.

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City of Arica in northern Chile.

City of Arica in northern Chile.

A large earthquake of magnitude 8.2 struck off the coast of northern Chile on 1 April. Tsunami warnings were issued and later lifted. A further earthquake of magnitude 7.6 occurred on 2 April. Strong tremors and aftershocks continue to take place. Staff at the British Embassy are continuing to monitor the situation. Our thoughts are with those families affected.

The British Embassy is in contact with the national emergency services in Chile. British nationals travelling/living in the affected areas, or planning to visit the affected areas, should monitor local media and follow the advice of the local authorities. If you have been affected by the earthquake and require consular assistance, you can contact the British Embassy in Chile on +562 2370 4100 or via Twitter @UKinChile.

The wider UK Government is closely monitoring the situation. The Chilean government has the situation under control and has not requested international assistance. The UK Department for International Development (DfID) stands ready to respond if support is requested.

Published 3 April 2014